Tenosynovitis is the inflammation of the fluid-filled sheath (called the synovium) that surrounds a tendon. Symptoms of tenosynovitis include pain, swelling and difficulty moving the particular joint where the inflammation occurs. When the condition causes the finger to "stick" in a flexed position, this is called "stenosing" tenosynovitis, commonly known as "trigger finger". This condition often presents with comorbid tendinitis.

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Tenosynovitis most commonly results from the introduction of bacteria into a sheath through a small penetrating wound such as that made by the point of needle or thorn. Repeated use of hand tools can precede the condition, as well as arthritis or injury. Tenosynovitis sometimes runs in families and is generally seen more often in females than in males. The causes for children are even less well known and have a recurrence rate of less than 1-5% after treatment.[citation needed]

Magnetic resonance images of fingers: psoriatic arthritis with dactylitis due to flexor tenosynovitis. Shown are T1 weighted axial (a) precontrast and (b) postcontrast magnetic resonance images of the fingers from a patient with psoriatic arthritis exhibiting flexor tenosynovitis at the second finger with enhancement and thickening of the tendon sheath (large arrow). Synovitis is seen in the fourth proximal interphalangeal joint (small arrow).

A physical examination shows swelling over the involved tendon. The health care provider may touch or stretch the tendon or have the patient move the muscle to which it is attached to see whether the patient experiences pain.[1]

The mainstay of treatment for tenosynovitis includes symptom alleviation, antibiotic therapy, and surgery. Mild tenosynovitis causing small scale swelling can be treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Naproxen, ibuprofen or diclofenac (marketed as Voltaren and other trade names), taken to reduce inflammation and as an analgesic. Resting the affected tendons is essential for recovery; a brace is often recommended. Physical or occupational therapy may also be beneficial in reducing symptoms.

Most infectious tenosynovitis cases should be managed with tendon sheath irrigation and drainage, with or without debridement of surrounding necrotic tissue. In severe cases, amputation may even be necessary. Coverage of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms with broad spectrum antibiotics is necessary. A good empiric regimen usually includes Vancomycin and Ciprofloxacin administered IV. Antibiotics are then tapered according to surgical microbiological culture results.[2]